Procedure for OSHA Inspection
Posted on November 15, 2011
Source: UOSH SafetyLine Newsletter
HOW THE INSPECTION BEGINS
Typically, Utah OSHA's inspectors will arrive at your location with no advance notice, next they will request the individual who is in charge and present their credentials and begin the inspection process.
The first step is an opening conference at which the inspector will explain the scope of the inspection. If someone has filed a complaint with Utah OSHA, the inspector will share a copy of the complaint. Neither the inspector or the company will be provided the complainants name.
DURING THE INSPECTION
While the inspector is at the inspection site you are allowed to have someone accompany him or her through your facility. That is a good idea for a couple of reasons. First, the inspector will be able to get answers to any questions or concerns that arise. Second, and even more important, you will be able to see what the inspector is looking for and how he or she goes about the process. A union representative may accompany if applicable. You may see the inspector document specific items with video or photographs. While that is allowed, if anything being recorded may be confidential (such as processes that involve trade secrets), you can ask the inspector to note that on the material, so that the information gets put into the private protected section of the file. During the inspection or after, the inspector may interview employees privately. If your employees are union the union steward may be present during the interview.
ENDING THE INSPECTION
Once the inspection has been completed, the inspector will hold a closing conference. He or she will identify any violations that were observed. If any citations need to be issued, they may have to be reviewed by the inspector's supervisor, and entered into the computer system that will factor in your company information such as your companies size and safety record to determine the fine.
AFTER THE INSPECTION
Your company will receive in the mail the citation where you will be given a date by which you will be expected to correct of abate the violation. If you disagree with the violation, the amount of time you have been given, or the amount of the fine, you can schedule an informal conference and /or formally appeal the citation. You may request more time to complete your abatement by writing a letter t the Utah OSHA Compliance Manager. One
example where you may be awarded more time is if you need to order equipment that has a lead time that goes beyond the required abatement date. Once you have corrected all the violations, you complete your abatement certification and return it to the address provided with pictures, receipts, or other documents to verify abatement. If you were assessed a penalty, send your check by the due date. If a payment plan is needed due to financial hardship call the number provided on your citation. You do not need to file for any type of
formal or informal conference unless you desire to do so.